Most of the parasites in your body seek the nutrients you consume. They, therefore, compete with your own nutritional needs and can cause nutrient malabsorption. Some parasites hunger for your blood – their presence can give a deficiency in both iron and protein.

Intestinal parasites can travel to other parts of your body via your bloodstream. They lodge themselves into the tissues of various bodily organs, including your lungs and stomach. In the liver, they can be one of the causes of cirrhosis and the presence of abscesses.

Infection with parasites can occur for a number of reasons, the most common of which is the consumption of contaminated food or water. Anyone is at risk of parasite infections, but a weak immunity, an unhealthy diet, and poor hygiene can increase your risk of getting infected.

The parasites in the human body greatly vary in terms of species, but a large percentage of them are either protozoans or worms. Protozoans are single-celled organisms known for various symptoms, including stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, and joint pain, among others. Some cases of protozoa infections are fatal.

Worms consist of flatworms, roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. The last three are among the most common parasitic worms found in the U.S. These animals cannot breed inside your body, but they can live in your lower intestine and cause serious health conditions.

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Before you take measures against parasites, make sure you know what you’re up against. A microbiology test, among others, will help you identify which parasites are currently in your body.

Fighting intestinal parasites with food

Even common foods can have anti-parasite ingredients that your body can benefit from. Here are some of the most effective:

Apart from consuming the above foods and herbal formula, you can also get rid of parasites by eating foods rich in probiotics, such as yogurt, kefir, apple cider vinegar, sauerkraut, and miso. These good gut bacteria help destroy parasites and ward off further infection. Cutting your sugar and alcohol from your diet will also help. (Related: Common parasite linked to increased risk of suicide and self-harm.)